Lake Natron, Tanzania
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Close to Tanzania’s border with Kenya is Lake Natron, a highly alkaline lake that sometimes turns a blood red hue thanks to the algae that live on its surface. High salinity means its waters grow toxic cyanobacteria, so the lake is harmful to most animals – except flamingos, which are able to digest the bacteria. This means the birds can thrive without other avian competition.
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The lake has a pH of up to 10.5, an alkalinity so high it can burn the skin and eyes of people and animals. The water can also run incredibly hot, with temperatures reaching 60°C (140°F) in the summer. Dipping your toes into the still water is extremely ill-advised.